STV

• proportional system used in Northern Ireland and local government elections in Scotland as well as General Elections in Republic of Ireland
• How does it work?

  • 6 seats per constituency
  • party can put up as many candidates as seats
  • parties usually use four
  • place candidates in order of preference
  • can vote for candidates from same or different parties
  • Electoral quota calculated = total votes/ number of seats available
  • all 1st place preferences counted
  • candidates reading quota elected
  • 2nd and subsequent preferences added to those who haven't made quota
• Scottish Council Election 2017 SNP 431,  Con 276,  Lab 262,  SLD 67,  Grn 19,  Ind 168,   Others 4
• FOR STV

  • proportional outcome
  • 6 representatives - one is bound to be from chosen party
  • smaller and independent parties can be elected
  • parties must work together
  • coalitions are likely
• AGAINST STV

  • complex system
  • extremist parties can be elected
  • vote counting is complicated
  • six representatives per constituency issues with accountabkilty